Depot Plaza

City of Tucson, Martin Luther King Apartments at Depot Plaza, project started 2006; project completed December 2010.

Project Description. The MLK Apartments is an infill project that contributes both high density housing and below-grade parking to Tucson’s downtown.  Its central location, adjacent to the Historic Hotel Congress and Ronstadt Transit Center provides nearby entertainment opportunities and convenient city bus access for residents.

The project included streetscape improvements, a plaza (to be constructed in a future phase) and a roof terrace.  Streetscape improvements include custom paving and large-scale steel planters containing shade trees.

Due to the desire for a “backyard” in an urban environment, a roof terrace was designed to provide residents with green space featuring garden plots along with mountain and city views.  Custom-designed planters delineate space, contain shade trees and offer gardening opportunities for residents.  Additionally, cisterns collect rainwater to supplement the garden irrigation.  The use of sustainable materials such as recycled rubber pavers and FSC Certified wood contributed to the LEED Silver rating.

The project achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver rating.

WSA Scope and Role. WSA prepared Hardscape and Planting plans through Construction Documents and LEED documentation, and provided Construction Administration.

Project Team

Owner: City of Tucson
Client: Nelsen Prtners

Design Team:

• Lead: Nelsen Partners
• WSA: landscape and hardscape Design, construction administration
• Carl Kominsky Landscape Architect, Inc.: irrigation design
• General Contractor: Lloyd Construction Company, Inc.

Construction Type: CMR
Estimated Cost Entire Project: $23,147,518

Awards: LEED Silver